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6 8 M ACO N M AG A Z I N E.CO M | O C TO B E R / N O V E M B E R 2 0 1 9 W hen local breast cancer survivor Sandy Union set out in 2005 to host a fundraiser as an outreach and token of appreciation to the community that supported her, she had no idea the wheels she had set in motion. In 2007, Union's event, Bunko for Breast Cancer, incorporated and became a nonprofit organization. Its mission was – and continues to be – to support the entire family affected by a breast cancer diagnosis. In 2011, the organization changed its name to United in Pink, according to Laura Paxton, co-founder, executive director and daughter of Sandy Union. "Our mission focuses on survivorship and quality of life for families affected by a breast cancer diagnosis," Paxton said. "Our programs, services and resources continue to expand and adapt to the needs of the families we serve." Because a breast cancer diagnosis is devastating to all members of the family, United in Pink provides programming to support and address the difficult journey each family member faces after their loved one has been diagnosed. e services are offered at no charge and have no barriers to access. "Our mission is to enhance the quality of life for breast cancer survivors and their families by addressing their unique physical, psychological, relational, financial and educational needs," she said. e organization is funded solely by private donations, fundraisers and grants. By utilizing partnerships within the medical community, United in Pink receives the majority of referrals from nurses and physicians seeking survivorship care that enhances their patients' long-term health and quality of life, Paxton said. Connie Forbes, RN, OCN and breast health specialist at the Breast Care Center, Navicent Health, is among those medical professionals who refer patients to the organization. UNIQUELY UNITED MIDDLE GEORGIA'S UNITED IN PINK REACHES OUT TO ASSIST LOCAL SURVIVORS AND THEIR FAMILIES BY LISA PRITCHARD MAYFIELD PHOTOGRAPHY BY CHRISTOPHER SMITH LAURA PAXTON AND KATIE CROFT